Facing The Elements: Winter Cycling Kit 2023
Facing The Elements: Winter Cycling Kit 2023
Cold temperatures, wet weather, and shorter days – winter can be a challenging time for us cyclists. However, with the right kit, it is possible to stay warm, dry, and comfortable on your bike, even in the depths of winter. In this article, we'll cover some of our favourite bits of winter kit from the head down so that you can keep on riding even when the weather is at its worst!
Head/Neck
Caps
Nothing is worse than chilly ears when out on a winter ride – that’s why thermal caps are a super useful accessory, keeping your noggin nice and warm. Made from insulating material, such as fleece or merino, they’re designed to keep heat in while being breathable and fit snugly under your helmet. Even a normal cycling cap is better than nothing in cold conditions, filling in the gaps and providing another layer of insulation.
Our top picks:
£19.99
£27.99
Neck Warmers
Neck warmers are a simple and easy way to keep your neck and face warm on a cold winter ride. Lightweight but surprisingly insulating, they can be pulled up over your mouth and nose when the temperature dips. They're especially useful on windy days, as they help protect your face from that nasty windchill!
Our top picks:
Core
Keeping your core at the right temperature during winter rides is essential. Get too cold and circulation will be prioritised to your vital organs, leaving your hands and feet struggling for warmth, but too hot and you’ll find yourself saturated with sweat. Layering up with warm yet breathable clothing is key.
Jackets
When it comes to keeping warm and dry on a winter ride, a jacket is essential. A good jacket should provide insulation against the cold, as well as protection from the wind and rain all while staying breathable.
Our top picks:
£79.99
£99.99 £29.99
Thermal Jerseys
Long-sleeve thermal jerseys made with insulating materials are designed to trap heat close to your body. The close fit combined with fleecy lining wicks sweat and keeps the warmth exactly where you want it, all while remaining breathable for those faster-paced rides.
Our top picks:
£64.99 £40.00
Baselayers
Baselayers are an essential layering tool for long winter rides. Perfect for wicking away sweat whilst retaining heat, insulating materials help you regulate your temperature as effective moisture management prevents you from overheating.
Our top picks:
Gilets
Gilets are typically made from lightweight, windproof materials and are designed to protect your chest and upper body from the cold. Layered over a thermal jersey for extra warmth on colder, windier days, it can be easily removed and shoved in your pocket if you start to get too warm.
Our top picks:
£59.99
Legs
Aside from staying comfortable and allowing you to enjoy your ride more, keeping your legs warm in the winter has performance benefits too. Not only will cold temperatures cause your muscles to tense up, it can also increase your risk of injuries like muscle strains. By keeping your legs warm, you can help prevent these problems and keep on riding through the winter without an issue.
Bib Tights
Bib tights are another essential piece of kit for winter cycling. Full-length, fleece-lined materials help to trap heat next to your skin, while also allowing moisture and excess heat to escape. This keeps your legs warm without causing you to overheat.
Our top picks:
£165.00 £104.99
Warmers
Arm/Leg Warmers
Arm and leg warmers are a versatile piece of kit that can be added or removed as needed. They're especially useful on days when the temperature is fluctuating, as you can easily take them off if you get too warm.
Our top picks:
£34.99
£44.99
Hands
Gloves
It’s important to look after your extremities when riding in winter, and gloves are crucial for keeping your hands warm on a winter ride. With a snug fit, warm yet breathable materials and grip pads on the palm, you’ll be ready for all eventualities. Waterproof gloves are also a good idea, as they will keep your hands dry in wet conditions.
Our top picks:
£55.00 £41.25
Feet
Overshoes
Overshoes are a must-have for the winter cyclist, insulating your feet and protecting them from the elements so they stay warm and comfortable. On cold days, fleece-lined overshoes will keep your feet toasty warm – in wet conditions, neoprene options will serve you best, and for those dry days where it’s not too warm but not too cold, toe covers should do the trick.
Our top picks:
£36.99
Socks
A good pair of socks should keep your feet toasty warm, without overheating, and you should never have to double up. Doing so restricts blood flow and will make your feet even colder!
Our top picks:
Now that you’re suited and booted and ready to ride, get out there and explore! Alternatively, if you’re hibernating for the winter, why not give indoor training a go? Check out our indoor training guide here.
